Yes, home births are legal in Greece under strict conditions. The Hellenic Ministry of Health permits them only in low-risk pregnancies, requiring prior approval from a licensed obstetrician and a nearby hospital transfer plan. Midwives must be registered with the Greek Midwives Association, and the birth must occur in a residence meeting hygiene standards set by the National Public Health Organization (EODY). Recent 2026 amendments to Law 4782/2021 tightened oversight, mandating real-time electronic reporting of home births to regional health authorities.
Key Regulations for Home Births in Greece
- Licensed Practitioner Requirement: Only midwives registered with the Greek Midwives Association (ΣΕΜ) may attend home births. Obstetricians may supervise but cannot lead unless certified in home birth protocols.
- Low-Risk Pregnancy Mandate: Home births are prohibited for pregnancies with complications (e.g., breech presentation, preeclampsia, or multiple gestation). A pre-birth risk assessment by an obstetrician is mandatory.
- Hospital Transfer Protocol: A signed agreement with a nearby public or private hospital (within 30 minutes’ travel) must be in place, ensuring emergency neonatal and maternal care access. Failure to comply voids legal protections.